MLA Broten calls out MP Block

On the back of a bill that was passed in Ottawa this summer, Kelly Block, MP
for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar is facing critics who claim the piece of
legislature is unfair and racist.

Last week Block's office sent out a survey
asking constituents to voice their opinions on whether or not refugee and asylum
claimants should receive healthcare that Canadians don't.

"This flyer was
meant to highlight that we're balancing the benefits by ensuring that asylum
claimants do not receive better healthcare than Canadians," said Block.

Prior
to the passing of Bill C-31 on June 12, refugee and asylum claimants were
receiving free supplemental healthcare funded by taxpayers. Block said the types
of healthcare they were receiving included free prescriptions, dental, vision
and mobility-assistance devices.

Block said, by axing these free supplemental
benefits for the asylum and refugee claimants, Canadians can save up to
$100-million in five years.

MLA for Saskatoon Massey Place and Immigration
and Health Critic for the Provincial NDP Party, Cam Broten, said Block's flyer
is both disgusting and trivial.

"I don't think it matches with the reality
that many refugees are facing," said Broten.

"I don't think that's the Canada
we want and I think it's very unfortunate that an MP would send this
out."

Broten referenced a refugee he knows who is suffering a
life-threatening illness and is unable to receive basic medication.

A
Facebook page has been since set up calling Block a racist. Block responded by
saying her record speaks for itself.

"I've been a strong advocate for many
programs and services in the city of Saskatoon for newcomers and immigrants,"
said Block. "It was never my intention to offend with the flyer that was
distributed and I'm taking note of the criticism I'm receiving."